From winemaker Chuck Carlson "This wine is reflective of a 'Sun' year where the growing conditions throughout the year are somewhat more temperate throughout the entire growing season. Cabernet Franc is a Bordeaux variety can actually prefers a slightly more moderate climate and thus thrives in the Santa Ynez Valley. I have blended in 20% Petit Verdot in this wine to add a bit of structure and to enhance the flavor profile of the wine. The wine enters rich with moderate extract. The fruit, tannins and overall mouthfeel are well balanced. As it opens over time the richness becomes more pronounced and the texture becomes more integrated and coating. There is plenty of oak but not to the point that it stands out. Think integration and balance. These two varieties together create a wine that can be seductively rich and well structured. I get flavors of dark cherry with raspberry mocha and a touch of Italian herbs. The tannins are very fine and chalky much like the 72% Cacao dark chocolate that I am enjoying while I write these notes."